If you’re an Indonesian high-school student with dream of studying in Japan, the Mitsui Bussan Scholarship Program for Indonesia offers a life-changing opportunity. This full-ride scholarship supports students through 1.5 years of Japanese-language study plus 4 years of university in Japan, covering tuition, living expenses, travel and more. In this article you’ll discover how this scholarship works, the benefits you’ll receive, eligibility criteria, how to apply, key deadlines for the 2026 mission, and unique tips to increase your chances. If you’re ready to turn “study in Japan” into reality, read on for a full deep-dive on the Mitsui Bussan opportunity and how you can position yourself as a strong Mitsui Bussan awardee.
Benefits
The Mitsui Bussan Scholarship Program for Indonesia offers exceptional support for Indonesian students who want to study in Japan and earn a bachelor’s degree in a Japanese university. The program is managed by Mitsui & Co., Ltd. and its affiliate foundation, and was established in 1992.
Here are the key benefits for selected students:
- Full tuition and university fees at both the Japanese-language school and the Japanese university. According to the 2025 prospectus, the program covers entrance/tuition fees for both phases.
- Monthly living allowance: In the 2025 version, scholars receive ¥145,000 per month.
- Travel expenses: Economy-class airline ticket from Indonesia to Japan before departure, and a one-way return ticket after completion of studies (within one year) are provided.
- Arrival allowance: Upon arrival in Japan, a lump-sum of ¥50,000 is granted.
- Lodging subsidy: During Japanese-language period, the dormitory cost is borne by the scholar but a lodging subsidy of ¥5,000/month is provided; during university years, the subsidy rises to ¥25,000/month.
- Comprehensive support: Beyond finances, the program emphasises adaptation support,monthly check-ins, peer community with current grantees and alumni.
While the benefits listed are from the 2025 guidebook, the next cycle (for 2026) is expected to follow a similar pattern,always check the official prospectus for specific year adjustments.
These benefits make this scholarship one of the most generous “study in Japan” paths available for Indonesian students. Unlike many short-term scholarships, this one covers both language preparation and full university study, which means once you’re selected, you have a clear five‐and‐a‐half year trajectory in Japan (1.5 years language + 4 years university) as per the 2025 cycle.
By enrolling in Japan and studying in Japanese, you also gain advanced language ability, cross-cultural exposure, and the potential to become a bridge between Indonesia and Japan,a theme strongly emphasised in the program’s objectives.
Eligibility
To qualify for the Mitsui Bussan Scholarship Program for Indonesia, you must meet specific academic, personal and attitudinal criteria. These eligibility rules help the selection committee identify students who are capable of success in Japan. Below is a breakdown of the key requirements (based on the 2025 prospectus) along with some interpretive guidance.
| Requirement Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Indonesian citizen (Republic of Indonesia) |
| Age | Less than 20 years old as of April 1 of the registration year (for 2025: less than 20 by 1 Apr 2025) |
| Marital Status | Unmarried at time of application and must remain unmarried during the scholarship period |
| Academic Background | Completed senior high school (SMA) in either IPA (science) or IPS (social) track; SMK (vocational) or SMA Bahasa track are not eligible. |
| Grades | Minimum score typically 80 or above in key subjects for last two consecutive semesters. For IPA: Math, Physics, Chemistry, English. For IPS: Math, Economics, Geography, English. |
| Willingness to Study Japanese | Must be willing to study Japanese language and pursue university education in Japanese. JLPT level is not mandatory but counts as a premium. |
| Health | Physically and mentally healthy, no contagious diseases. |
Unique insight: Because the scholarship emphasises both academic excellence and personal readiness (e.g., willingness to study Japanese, cross-cultural adaptability), you should not only present high grades but also a genuine commitment to Japan, your chosen university field, and future contributions to Indonesia. Standard essays may emphasise your past achievements; to stand out, reflect deeply on how living/studying in Japan will shape how you give back to Indonesian society.
Additionally, the selection process rewards those who proactively prepare: achieving a JLPT certificate (even N5 level) or engaging in Japan-related activities (exchange visits, language clubs, social issues work) can strengthen your profile beyond just the grade threshold. While not required, it signals readiness for Japanese‐language study and cultural adaptation.
Fields of Study
a. Study of Sciences and Engineering (4-years under-graduate course), such as;
- Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Information & Computer Science, Biology, Biophysics & Biochemistry, Geology, etc.
- Civil Engineering, Architecture, Urban Engineering, Environmental Engineering, etc.
- Mechanical Engineering, Precision Engineering, etc.
- Ship Building & Ocean Engineering, Aeronautics, etc.
- Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Information & Communication Engineering, etc.
- Metallurgy, Materials Science, etc.
- Applied Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, etc.
- Industrial Engineering, Factory & Production Management, Plant Management, etc.
- Agricultural Engineering, Forest & Fishery Science, Agricultural Chemistry, Agro biology, Food Engineering, etc.
Due to course term reason, applicants are not entitled to choose Medical science, Pharmaceutical science and Veterinary science as field of study
b) Study of Social Sciences, Business and Commerce (4-years under-graduate course) such as;
- Civil Law, Public Law, Political Science, etc.
- Economic Theory, Economic History, Economic Policy, etc.
- Enterprise Management, Accounting, Commerce & Marketing, Finance, Insurance, Industrial Relations, Econometrics, International Economics, etc.
How to Apply
Applying for the Mitsui Bussan Scholarship Program for Indonesia involves a multi-step process that begins with online registration and proceeds through screening, written exam, aptitude & health check, and final interview. It is important to follow the official instructions carefully, as any deviation may disqualify you.
- Read the official prospectus and eligibility criteria carefully; download the application form and required documents.
- Register your email address via the website, follow the confirmation link and create your login account for application.
- Complete the online application form and upload all required documents, such as certified school records, photograph (4-cm × 3-cm), recommendation letter (in English), etc.
- After submission, print and keep a copy of the registration number and application form. Stay prepared for the first selection (online written exam in Math & English).
- If you pass the online written exam, you will be invited for the aptitude test (online) and health check. Arrange travel and health check (costs borne by you).
- Final stage: interview by the scholarship committee. Be ready to explain your motivation, future goals, and ability to adapt to life in Japan.
- If selected, participate in a preparatory language‐course and cultural induction in Japan before entering university.
This is a highly competitive full scholarship. Merely meeting the minimum criteria does *not* guarantee selection. Prepare thoroughly and treat each stage seriously.
Application tip: Since the program expects applicants to eventually study in Japanese, highlight any experience you have with Japanese language, cultural awareness, adaptability, or problem-solving related to Indonesian society. Use concrete examples: e.g., “In my local high-school club I planned a small event introducing Japanese culture to my classmates.” These narrative details give your application authenticity and align with the scholarship’s mission of forming graduates who can act as bridges between Indonesia and Japan.
Application Timeline and Deadlines
Knowing the correct timeline is critical for success in the Mitsui Bussan Scholarship Program for Indonesia. For the 2025 cycle, the key dates are listed in the 2025 prospectus – you should expect similar dates for the 2026 round but always verify via the official site.
| Selection Stage | Typical Date (2025 Cycle) |
|---|---|
| Registration & submission of application form | 13 Jan 2025 – 14 Feb 2025 |
| Written exam (Mathematics & English) – online | Sunday, 20 Apr 2025 |
| Aptitude test & health check | May 2025 (exact date notified) |
| Final interview | 17 Jun 2025 |
| Dispatch to Japan (start language school) | October 2025 for the 2025 batch |
For the upcoming 2026 cycle, you should mark your calendar for early January (registration opens) and ensure all documents are prepared at least 1–2 months ahead. Official announcement for 2025 concluded “next selection will be started in January 2026.”
Pro tip: Create a detailed checklist with deadlines, ensure your recommendation letter is in English and signed by your school principal well before registration starts. Missing papers or late submission will disqualify you.
Conclusion
For Indonesian students aspiring to study in Japan, the Mitsui Bussan Scholarship Program for Indonesia offers a truly comprehensive pathway,from language training to full bachelor’s degree,all in one package. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are willing to commit to living and studying in Japan for 5.5 years, this is among the highest-value opportunities available. The key to success lies in careful preparation: strong grades, meaningful involvement (especially connected to Japanese culture or Indonesian social issues), language readiness, and precise adherence to the application process. Use the timeline as your roadmap, deepen your narrative on “why Japan and why me”, and submit well ahead of deadlines. With dedication, you could become the next Mitsui Bussan awardee and embark on your journey to study in Japan.
What majors or university courses can I choose under the Mitsui Bussan Scholarship?
You may select majors in Science & Engineering (4-year undergraduate) such as civil engineering, environmental engineering, information & computer science, applied chemistry, etc.; or in Social Sciences / Business / Commerce (4-year undergraduate) such as economics, business management, accounting, international economics. Note however that Medical, Pharmaceutical and Veterinary sciences are explicitly excluded.
Is Japanese-language proficiency required before applying?
No formal JLPT certificate is mandatory at application but willingness to study Japanese and a certificate (N5–N1) will be a bonus in the selection process.
Will I have to pay any application fee or cover costs during selection?
No application fee is required for the selection stages (written exam, aptitude test, interview) but you must cover your own travel, lodging, medical check-up fees during selection.
What happens if I fail one of the selection stages?
If you do not pass a selection stage, your application ends there. The program emphasises fairness and no retesting is provided. However, those not selected may still be invited by Japanese universities under separate routes.
Does this scholarship require work after graduation in Indonesia or in Japan?
No binding employment requirement is imposed by the scholarship. Grantees are free from post-scholarship obligations. However, the program expects you to use your experience to contribute to Indonesia’s development and act as a bridge between Indonesia and Japan.
If you found this article helpful please share it with fellow Indonesian students planning to study in Japan and let us know your thoughts in the comments , what major in Japan would you pick and why? We’d love to hear from you and help you get ready.
